The Great Lawn in Central Park has long been a premier venue for some of the most memorable concerts in New York City's history. This expansive 55-acre area has hosted a diverse array of performances, drawing massive crowds and featuring a variety of musical genres.
Simon & Garfunkel Reunion Concert (1981)
On September 19, 1981, the iconic duo Simon & Garfunkel reunited for a free concert on the Great Lawn, attracting an estimated 500,000 attendees. This event stands as one of the largest gatherings in Central Park's history, showcasing the duo's timeless hits and marking a significant moment in music history.
Elton John Concert (1980)
A year prior, on September 13, 1980, Elton John performed to a crowd of approximately 300,000 fans. The concert was notable not only for its size but also for Elton John's flamboyant performances, including his rendition of "Imagine" as a tribute to John Lennon.
New York Philharmonic Performance (1986)
In celebration of the Statue of Liberty's centennial, the New York Philharmonic, conducted by Zubin Mehta, delivered a free open-air concert on July 5, 1986. This classical performance drew an estimated 800,000 attendees, setting a record for the largest audience at a classical concert.
Garth Brooks Concert (1997)
Country music superstar Garth Brooks took to the Great Lawn on August 7, 1997, performing before an audience of about 250,000 people. The concert was broadcast live on HBO, further amplifying its reach and solidifying Brooks' status as a leading figure in country music.
Global Citizen Festival (2012 - Present)
Since its inception in 2012, the Global Citizen Festival has become an annual fixture on the Great Lawn, aiming to raise awareness and funds to combat extreme poverty. The festival has featured performances by artists such as Beyoncé, Coldplay, and Ed Sheeran, drawing tens of thousands of attendees each year. In 2024, despite inclement weather, the festival attracted around 60,000 attendees, demonstrating its enduring appeal and commitment to social causes.
Dave Matthews Band Concert (2003)
On September 24, 2003, the Dave Matthews Band performed a free concert on the Great Lawn, attracting over 120,000 fans. The performance was later released as a live album titled "The Central Park Concert," capturing the energy and enthusiasm of the massive crowd.
Bon Jovi Concert (2008)
As part of the Major League Baseball All-Star Game festivities, Bon Jovi performed on the Great Lawn on July 12, 2008. The concert drew approximately 50,000 attendees, featuring a setlist of the band's greatest hits and celebrating the intersection of music and sports.
Paul Simon Concert (1991)
Following the success of the Simon & Garfunkel reunion, Paul Simon returned to the Great Lawn for a solo concert on August 15, 1991. The event attracted around 600,000 fans, featuring songs from his solo career as well as classic hits from his partnership with Art Garfunkel.
Diana Ross Concert (1983)
On July 21, 1983, Diana Ross performed a free concert on the Great Lawn, which was unfortunately cut short due to a severe thunderstorm. Despite the weather, the event drew a significant crowd and remains a memorable moment in Central Park's concert history.
Metropolitan Opera Performances
The Great Lawn has also been a venue for annual performances by the Metropolitan Opera, offering free concerts that make opera accessible to a broader audience. These events have been a staple since the 1960s, contributing to the cultural fabric of New York City.
These concerts have not only provided entertainment but have also played a significant role in the cultural and social landscape of New York City, making the Great Lawn a historic venue for large-scale public gatherings.
